LANSING – Progress Michigan today criticized the House for approving a budget plan that raises taxes on low-income working families, seniors and others to pay for a $1.73-billion tax break for rich corporations.

Six Republicans joined all 43 Democrats in opposing the unfair budget, and MIRS political newsletter pointed out that 5 of the 6 Republicans were elected in swing districts.

“Today, Republicans in the House turned their backs on seniors, children and families who work hard and play by the rules so rich corporations can continue to get unfair tax breaks and giveaways that may not create jobs,” said Progress Michigan Executive Director David Holtz. “Michigan citizens deserve a Legislature that will fight for the middle class, not attack it. Michigan citizens deserve a Legislature that will fight for their future, not for rich CEOs.”

MIRS newsletter reported today that to pay for the roughly $1.73 billion in tax cuts to corporations, House Bill 4361 eliminates or reduces several income tax exemptions, including the exemption for pensions, the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the state’s film credit.

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Progress Michigan is a first-of-its-kind organization. Our mission is to provide a strong credible voice that holds public officials and government accountable, assists in the promotion of progressive ideas and uses state-of-the-art web based new media to creatively build grassroots support for progressive ideas.